Cuadrat 2.0: Steering the Transformation in East Bengal’s Revitalization
Carles Cuadrat, nurtured in the rich footballing system of Cantera Barcelonista, the renowned Spanish football academy, brings a unique blend of realism and adaptability to the beautiful game.
Despite the fantasy-infused roots of Cantera Barcelonista, Cuadrat’s coaching approach takes a pragmatic turn. His background as a defender in an unfulfilled playing career has moulded him into a proponent of pragmatism, favouring a 1-0 win mindset. Cuadrat instils in his players the importance of being forceful and result-oriented, shunning the allure of fantasy-driven football.
Cuadrat’s tenure at Bengaluru FC during the 2018-2019 season showcased his pragmatic brilliance. Focused on set-piece movements, the aerial dominance of players like Australian Erik Partaalu and Juanan of Spain, along with the attacking prowess of Venezuelan striker Miku, led to a defensively formidable and difficult-to-score-against team, culminating in their ISL triumph.
Cuadrat’s departure from Bengaluru FC in the middle of the 2020-2021 season raised eyebrows, with his coaching style perceived as an antithesis to the club’s football philosophy. This departure highlighted the challenges when a pragmatic approach clashes with established ideologies.
Taking charge at East Bengal FC presented a different challenge for Cuadrat. Tasked with revitalizing a team battered and unsuccessful in recent seasons, he recognized the need for a long-term project. Despite the illusion of time in football business, Cuadrat approached the challenge with maturity and flexibility, drawing lessons from his experiences at Bengaluru FC.
Returning to Indian football, Cuadrat exhibits a more mature and flexible coaching philosophy. The lessons learned from his rollercoaster ride at BFC reflect in his approach at East Bengal FC. Cuadrat’s focus on creating a disciplined midfield, combined with a counter-attacking threat, demonstrates his adaptability and strategic acumen.
Prabhsukhan Gill’s stellar performances in goal and Cleiton Silva’s impressive displays indicate the success of Cuadrat’s project at East Bengal FC. Silva, reminiscent of Miku under Cuadrat’s guidance, is growing in stature with each match, contributing significantly to the team’s resurgence.
Despite East Bengal’s rapid transformation, Cuadrat maintains a balanced outlook. The recent victory against Mohun Bagan in the Super Cup is acknowledged, but he remains focused on the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for continuous hard work as a team.
Carles Cuadrat’s journey reflects a coach who has seamlessly transitioned from fantasy-driven roots to a pragmatic and adaptable approach, leaving an indelible mark on Indian football. As he steers East Bengal FC through challenges, Cuadrat’s commitment to pragmatism and his ability to nurture emerging talents positions him as a notable figure in the evolving landscape of football coaching.
